Boondi Raita Recipe
Boondi Raita Recipe: Boondi Raita is one of my all-time favorite Indian dishes. As a housewife blogger who loves cooking and is also a food critic, I have tried various recipes for this dish, but my personal favorite is the classic version that my mother used to make. The moment I prepare the Boondi Raita, the aroma of roasted cumin and coriander fills the kitchen, creating an ambiance of warmth and comfort. The texture of crispy boondi mixed with creamy yogurt and a touch of sweetness creates a perfect balance of flavors. The first spoonful brings an explosion of taste and a feeling of contentment that is hard to describe in words.
What is Boondi Raita?
Boondi Raita is a traditional Indian side dish made with boondi (crispy fried chickpea flour balls) and yogurt. It is a refreshing and cooling dish that is often served with spicy Indian curries or biryanis to balance out the heat. The dish is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit individual preferences by adding different spices and flavors. Boondi Raita is a versatile and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit individual preferences. Whether it’s the classic version or one of the variations, this dish is sure to impress with its perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Variations of Boondi Raita
- Pomegranate Boondi Raita: This variation of Boondi Raita adds a touch of sweetness to the dish. Pomegranate seeds are added to the raita, which not only adds flavor but also provides a burst of color. The sweetness of the pomegranate seeds complements the spiciness of Indian curries, making it a perfect accompaniment.
- Mint Boondi Raita: Mint Boondi Raita is a refreshing variation of the classic dish. Fresh mint leaves are added to the yogurt mixture, which not only adds flavor but also provides a cooling effect. The dish is perfect for summers and complements spicy Indian curries.
- Onion Boondi Raita: Onion Boondi Raita is a savory variation of the dish. Finely chopped onions are added to the raita, which adds a crunch and enhances the flavor. The dish goes well with Indian bread and is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
- Tomato Boondi Raita: Tomato Boondi Raita is a tangy variation of the dish. Chopped tomatoes are added to the raita, which not only adds flavor but also provides a tangy taste. The dish goes well with biryanis and is perfect for a party or get-together.
Nutrition – Boondi Raita
Boondi Raita is a nutritious dish that is rich in calcium, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. The dish is low in calories and fat, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Yogurt, the main ingredient in the dish, is known for its probiotic properties, which aid in digestion and boost immunity. Boondi, made from chickpea flour, is a good source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy addition to the dish.
Step by step Boondi Raita Recipe
Boondi Raita Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp yogurt / dahi / curd
- 4-5 tbsp water
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper powder
- 2 tbsp boondi
- pinch Red Chilli Powder for garnishing
- coriander leaves / cilantro chopped for garnishing
Instructions
Preparation
- Assemble all ingredients together to avoid last minute rush.
- Make sure boondi is not too old, otherwise Raita would not taste good. If you feel foul smell, discard the boondi and take the fresh pack to make it. You can also make Boondi at home. I have shared Homemade Boondi Recipe in my other post.
- You can use homemade curd or store bought curd or yogurt for the recipe. Yogurt would require more water while beating than curd.
Cooking
- Take 4 tbsp yogurt or curd in a bowl and start adding little by little water in the yogurt or curd. Do not add water immediately, pour 2-3 tbsp first, whisk the curd and add accordingly. The consistency of Raita should be medium thick.
- Whisk the curd until you achieve smooth texture.
- Then, add ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp roasted cumin powder add ¼ tsp black pepper powder.
- At the end, add 2 tbsp Boondi and mix well. I mostly use this method for Boondi Raita for crisp boondi balls but you can also soak Boondi in lukewarm water for 15 minutes and then add in Raita. This way excess oil of boondi will drain out in the water.
- For garnishing, add chopped coriander leaves and sprinkle some red chili powder.
- Serve chilled & enjoy.
Equipment Used for This Recipe
Step by Step Video of Recipe
Notes & Tips
- Choosing Boondi for Raita: This is very important to choose fresh Boondi for better results. Foul smell boondi should not be used in any recipe.
- Salt & Spices: Adjust salt and spices as per your taste buds. You can also add 1 chopped green chili for spicier Raita.
- Serving: Boondi Raita is best served chilled. However, if you need to serve immediately, use chilled water while beating the curd.
- Leftover Raita: Refrigerate the leftover Boondi Raita for up to 2 days. Simply, adjust the consistency by adding water.
Nutrition Information (Note: Approximate)
FAQs – Boondi Raita Recipe
What is the best way to make crispy boondi for Boondi Raita?
Making crispy boondi is the most crucial step in preparing Boondi Raita. The key is to make the batter thin and smooth to ensure that the boondi comes out crispy. Adding a pinch of baking soda to the batter also helps in achieving the perfect texture. Fry the boondi in small batches to ensure that they are evenly cooked and crispy.
How can I make Boondi Raita less spicy?
If you find Boondi Raita too spicy, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether. Adding a pinch of sugar or honey to the raita can also help balance out the spiciness.
Can I use Greek yogurt in Boondi Raita?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt in Boondi Raita. However, it is thicker and tangier than regular yogurt, so you may need to add a little water to thin it out and balance the flavors.
Can I make Boondi Raita in advance?
Yes, you can make Boondi Raita in advance. However, do not mix the boondi into the yogurt until just before serving, as it can become soggy and lose its crispy texture.
How long does Boondi Raita last in the fridge?
Boondi Raita can last up to 2-3 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. However, the boondi may lose its crispy texture over time, so it is best to mix it just before serving.
What can I serve with Boondi Raita?
Boondi Raita is a versatile dish that goes well with a variety of Indian dishes, such as biryanis, curries, and kebabs. It can also be served as a dip with pita bread or chips.
Can I add vegetables to Boondi Raita?
Yes, you can add vegetables to Boondi Raita, such as grated carrots or cucumbers, to enhance the flavor and texture. However, make sure to chop them finely and mix them just before serving to prevent the raita from becoming watery.
Can I make Boondi Raita without frying the boondi?
Yes, you can make Boondi Raita without frying the boondi. You can use store-bought boondi or roast the boondi in the oven to make it crispy. However, frying the boondi gives it a unique flavor and texture that is hard to replicate.
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